Milk was a bad idea...

Holy mackerel, it's hot out! Actually, I wouldn't really know because I'm imprisoned in a cubicle all day with no windows, but that's what I hear anyway. In any case, I still like to make lists so I am making one with all the best, coolest, summer treats downtown--just for you!

1. If you haven't had a mojito at Centro, you must be crazy. There is nothing more refreshing than chilled rum and fresh mint and they make the best in town--hands down. They're pretty much famous for 'em.

2. If you're not into the booze, check out Atlas Purveyors for their assortment of chilled beverages. There is a tea slush, frozen house chai and boba, which is fun because it has a giant straw. Also, I hear there is some mysterious drink called the Kitzel Special...

And I can't leave out The Cup because they combine two wonderful things: coffee and milkshakes. And milkshakes and other flavors, if you must.

And last but not least, go for Ma Ma's Oolong Tea at Zoe Ma Ma's...Mama always does make it best!

3. Fro-yo for sho. Cefiore is all natural and all delicious. I would recommend the tart original with your choice of toppings. (or mochi, Eli swears by the mochi...)

Also, Two Spoons has housemade gelato in different flavors everyday...drool. The last time I was in there I had Mango Chile--sounds nuts, but it's not. It's fruit.

4. If you need something a little more substantial, how 'bout ceviche from Aji? Fish, flash-cooked in citrus juice makes a great summer night dinner after a long hot day...

5. For something a little different, try the mango lassi at Sherpa's -- it's basically a fruit smoothie with yogurt, but it goes perfectly with spicy Indian dishes like tandoori chicken.

Or take your craving over to Bombay Bistro where they mix it with SoCo.

6. And last but not least, a Boulder standby is a giant marg at the Rio on the rooftop deck with a bowl of chips and salsa (one of my favorite salsas in town). Good news: they have a mini marg for $2.50 around lunch time for those really long days. No, I'm not endorsing drinking at work, just during your lunch break.

Or take this recipe to the Boulder Farmers' Market to pick up the ingredients and give cool summer foods your own twist!

--Stacy

It all Started at The Rio...

Everyone loves a birthday in Boulder - and in August and September we get to celebrate Rio Grande's 20th! This juicy Downtown Boulder cantina is putting its party-throwing skills to work for their big 2-0 and want to give two lucky Rio lovers a trip to Guadalajara, Mexico. To win, all you have to do is tell a story. If you have the best story that starts with The Rio, good friends, good food and a few margaritas, send it in! Ultimately, The Rio recognizes that these stories are part of its own, and they're looking for the best story their 20 years has provided.

You have until the end of August to remember, transcribe and send in your tale of hilarity and good times. The all-expense paid trip for two to Guadalajara includes an extensive tequila tasting and tequila-making tour. And maybe your story doesn't get you a trip to Mexico, but it could still win you other great prizes right here in Downtown Boulder! Runner-up goodies include a cruiser bike, Rio gift bags, and a special place on the Rio wall for all to read and enjoy. Send in your story here!

On September 12th, join Rio Grande for a birthday fiesta with giveaways, a mariachi band, great TexMex and even better margaritas.

- Claire Little